Cambodia Deports 66 Thai Nationals for Illegal Residence

AKO Phnom Penh, September 9, 2026 -- Cambodian authorities deported 66 Thai nationals on Wednesday morning through the Poipet International Border Checkpoint in Banteay Meanchey province after they completed sentences for illegal residence. The group, which included 28 women and one child, was processed during a multi-agency operation that began at 9:30 a.m. The operation was directed by Brigadier General Yi Chamroeun, Chief of the Poipet International Border Police Station, and supervised by Major General Yeum Man, Deputy Director of the Investigation and Enforcement Department under the General Department of Immigration (GDI). Following border processing, the individuals were handed over to Thai authorities at the Ban Khlong Luek International Border Checkpoint in Aranyaprathet district, Sa Kaeo province. "Foreigners who violate the law or reside without proper legal status face strict enforcement, including deportation following judicial procedures," Brigadier General Yi Chamroeun said, noting that the operation reflects Cambodia’s commitment to managing foreign nationals in compliance with immigration laws. Cambodian immigration officials stated that continuous inter-agency collaboration between border police, the GDI, and provincial authorities remains central to securing international checkpoints and controlling cross-border movement. By K. Rithy Reak